If one only wished to be happy, this could be easily accomplished; but we wish to be happier that other read more

If one only wished to be happy, this could be easily accomplished; but we wish to be happier that other people, and this is always difficult, for we believe others to be happier than they are.

Priestly was the first (unless it was Becarria) who taught my
lips to pronounce this sacred truth--that the greatest read more

Priestly was the first (unless it was Becarria) who taught my
lips to pronounce this sacred truth--that the greatest happiness
of the greatest number is the foundation of morals and
legislation.

Happiness is a choice that requires effort at times.

Happiness is a choice that requires effort at times.

But what is happiness except the simple harmony between a man and
the life he leads?

But what is happiness except the simple harmony between a man and
the life he leads?

What can be happier than for a man, conscious of virtuous acts,
and content with liberty, to despise all read more

What can be happier than for a man, conscious of virtuous acts,
and content with liberty, to despise all human affairs?
[Lat., Quid enim est melius quam memoria recte factorum, et
libertate contentum negligere humana?]

Happiness is the absence of the striving for happiness.

Happiness is the absence of the striving for happiness.

Pure love produces pure nonsense.

Pure love produces pure nonsense.

To be kind to all, to like many and love a few, to be needed and wanted by those we read more

To be kind to all, to like many and love a few, to be needed and wanted by those we love, is certainly the nearest we can come to happiness.

True happiness comes from the joy of deeds well done, the zest of creating things new.

True happiness comes from the joy of deeds well done, the zest of creating things new.